Orbost Snowy Rovers’ season sits on a knife edge, two games outside the top four, with just four rounds to play in a competitive season of the East Gippsland Football Netball League.
The Blues were determined to bank a vital four points last Saturday when they hosted premiership contender, Boisdale Briagolong, but it wasn’t to be, the Bombers home in a tight and hard fought encounter by 17 points.
The Bombers led all day increasing their lead at every chance, combatting everything the gallant Blues threw at them.
At this stage of the year, when injuries start to accumulate after a long and torrid season, depth can become an issue, with that certainly the case at Orbost presently.
It’s no coincidence the three leading finals contenders, Boisdale Briagolong, Lucknow and Wy Yung are holding up well with injuries and have the added depth if required.
Games this time are not only won by the side with the stars, but also by the sides that bottom five players are up and running, performing well at senior level, every week.
With key players like Wes Russell, Jordan Ross, Henry Vine, Curtley Nettleton and Clancy Bennett presently on the sidelines it gave the opportunity for Blues coach, Peter Seal, to introduce talented youngster Bobby Bills for his first senior game, the youngster adapting quickly and not looking out of sorts.
Another promising youngster, Brayden Fenner, also played, after being close to best on ground in thirds earlier in the day.
With co-captain, Hamish Nettleton kept goalless, it was left to the elusive Lachlan Fenner to lead the way, kicking three goals in an impressive performance.
Ash Jonkers worked hard in the midfield, but he had his hands full with the brilliant Kel Porter and explosive Tommy Jolly.
Will Walker worked hard in the ruck against a formidable opponent in Matt Wilkinson, who uses his bulk and size to advantage.
Gus Rogers and Jarrah Nettleton were busy around the packs, while the ever improving Jake Humphreys continues to shine, with some added responsibilities doe to the unavailabilities.
The Blues will be hoping to regain some players in the coming fortnight as they make a last ditch effort to qualify for finals action for the second consecutive year.
